Knowledge and self-reported practices regarding leptospirosis among adolescent school children in a highly endemic rural area in Sri Lanka

Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease, which has become a major public health threat in Sri Lanka. A majority of patients are farmers in rural endemic areas. The purpose of the present study is to describe the level of knowledge and frequencies of risky practices related to leptospirosis among a sample of rural school adolescents in Galgamuwa, Kurunegala district, a highly endemic area in Sri Lanka.

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 460 adolescents studying in grades 9 and 10 of government schools. Study participants were selected using a multistage cluster sampling technique. A structured, pretested, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge on leptospirosis, and frequency of associated risky practices related to leptospirosis.

The response rate was 100%. Fifty-two percent of respondents had a 'good' level of knowledge of leptospirosis. In the assessment of practices, 62% were involved in rice paddy cultivation either 'frequently' or 'rarely'. Seventy percent of the fathers and 50% of the mothers of the students were involved in paddy cultivation. Thirteen percent reported that they swam, bathed, or washed in ponds of stagnant water. Of the students involved in paddy cultivation, only 18% said they usually used gloves and boots 'frequently'. Among the 9% of students who handled cattle or buffalo, 61% reported washing their hands and feet after handling the animals. Good level of knowledge was significantly associated with involvement in paddy cultivation among the adolescents (p=0.45), fathers (p<0.001), and mothers (p=0.012). The level of knowledge was not significantly associated with practicing preventive measures for leptospirosis.

Although the respondent's overall level of knowledge regarding leptospirosis was satisfactory, the study identified several important gaps in specific areas. Those who were involved or had parents involved in paddy cultivation had better knowledge. However, this knowledge was not translated into practice of personal preventive measures. Use of protective attire in paddy farming needs to be facilitated by health authorities.